Takai Celebrates National Drive Electric Week

Statement

This week, Congressman Mark Takai (HI-01) celebrated the fifth annual National Drive Electric Week, which runs from September 12-20, 2015. National Drive Electric Week is a nationwide celebration to heighten awareness of plug-in vehicles and highlight the benefits of all-electric and plug-in hybrid-electric cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more.

"I am a proud owner of an electric vehicle because it is important to me that I do everything I can to minimize my carbon footprint. I hope more people learn about these cars because they're not only good for the environment, but for your wallet too," said Takai.

Takai, who owned one of the first electric vehicles in Hawaii, sponsored legislation in the Hawaii State House to incentivize families and businesses to invest in electric vehicles.

"I believe that by protecting our air and increasing our use of renewable energy sources we can make a difference today, for the generations to come. I hope to work not only to implement similar programs, but even more comprehensive ones, on the national level," concluded Takai.

Takai is an original co-sponsor of the FLEET Act along with Congressmen Jared Huffman (D-CA) and Jerry Connolly (D-VA). The legislation would require the USPS to reduce petroleum consumption by 2% each year over the next 10 years, saving an estimated $400 million, and sets minimum fuel efficiency and tailpipe emission standards for all new fleet vehicles. The bill would also instruct USPS to incorporate new technologies into postal routes that increase fuel economy or reduce tailpipe emissions.

Source